• Winter Adventures: The Side of Acadia National Park You’ve Not Yet Seen

    Winter Adventures: The Side of Acadia National Park You’ve Not Yet Seen

    For an Acadia National Park experience like no other, visit this winter. The quiet beauty makes it the perfect getaway for outdoor adventures like hiking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing. To get the most out of your time while you’re out there, consider a winter nature tour to discover the spectacular ecosystems that surround you. Cabin fever will be a distant memory with these winter-wonderland adventures:

    • Winter Hikes
      • 45 miles of carriage roads: These historic paths are just as stunning during the winter. Their generous width, crushed stone surfaces and volunteer-groomed paths make them ideal for cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Before you go, check trail conditions on the Friends of Acadia website, an organization that volunteers to keep carriage roads primed for skiers. 
      • Ocean Path: Who said the beach and winter don’t go together? While the majority of Park Loop Road is closed in the winter, a stretch of road from Sand Beach to Otter Cliff is accessible to visitors. This trail winds alongside dramatic granite cliffs overlooking the ocean.  
      • Ship Harbor Trail: For a beginner-level, but beautiful hike, take the Ship Harbor Trail. The contrast of snow on the pink granite shore and evergreens will make it no less stunning than higher-elevation hikes. This trail was improved and regraded in 2015 to better comply with accessibility standards. 
      • Jordan Pond Loop Trail: A favorite any time of year, this 3.4-mile loop is serenely quiet in the winter as opposed to the bustling summers. Often the shoreline, rocks and lake sparkle with ice for the perfect winter hike photo. 
      • Gorham Mountain Trail: For a winter-take on coastal views and a more challenging hike, grab your snowshoes or cross-country skis on this 3.5-mile loop that has a gradual incline. The snow-covered spruce and granite add to the magic of this place. 
    • Nature and Wildlife Tours
      • Down East Nature Tours offers year-round bird watching and nature tours for individuals, couples, families and small groups. With an emphasis on native and migratory birds, they aim to help you discover the amazing flora and fauna of Mount Desert Island.
      • Natural History Center will help you get the most out of your Acadia visit with personalized nature experiences or scheduled tours. Whether you are interested in spotting Snowy Owls whilst snowshoeing, local history or nature photography, they will provide the knowledge and resources you need.
     
    While on your winter adventure, bundle up in layers to ensure you can shed clothing once you warm up. For more ideas, be sure to check out https://www.visitbarharbor.com/see-do

    Photos courtesy of Aysgarth Station Bed & Breakfast

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